Stevens-Johnson syndrome

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Risk factors

By Mayo Clinic staff

Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a rare and unpredictable reaction. No test is available to help predict who is at risk. Some factors, however, may increase your risk of developing Stevens-Johnson syndrome, including:

  • Existing medical conditions. Viral infections, diseases that decrease your immunity, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and systemic lupus erythematosus — a chronic inflammatory disease — increase your risk of developing Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
  • Genetics. Carrying a gene called HLA-B12 may make you more susceptible to Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Complications Causes
References
  1. Nirken MH, et al. Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: Clinical manifestations; pathogenesis; and diagnosis. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 13, 2010.
  2. High WA, et al. Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: Management, prognosis, and long-term sequelae. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 13, 2010.
  3. Evans J. Topical treatment protocol for Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Journal of Wound Ostomy & Continence Nursing. 2009;36:509.
  4. Hazin R, et al. Derm diagnoses you can't afford to miss. The Journal of Family Practice. 2009;58:298.
  5. Knowles S, et al. Clinical risk management of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis spectrum. Dermatologic Therapy. 2009;22:441.
  6. Ward KE, et al. Severe adverse skin reactions to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: A review of the literature. American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy. 2010;67:206.
  7. Usatine RP, et al. Dermatologic emergencies. American Family Physician. 2010;82:773.
DS00940 April 9, 2011

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